What if My Nose is Too Small?

BALTIMORE, Jan. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Although it is common knowledge that cosmetic surgery can correct large or bumpy noses, some patients have a different problem -- a nose that isn't long enough. A specialized plastic surgery technique called derotation or counter-rotation is an effective way to correct the appearance of a short or upturned nose.

Dr. Patrick J. Byrne says this procedure remains unfamiliar to many: "Because rhinoplasty is primarily advertised as a method to create a smaller, straighter nose, patients may not be aware of nose surgery options to lengthen a short nose or correct an exaggerated upturn in the nasal tip," says Dr. Byrne, a board-certified otolaryngologist and a facial plastic surgeon at the Cosmetic Surgery Center of Maryland.

Dr. Byrne, an internationally renowned rhinoplasty specialist, performs a variety of rhinoplasty procedures, including derotation, for patients in the Baltimore area.

The main complaint his patients make about a small nose is that the nasal bridge is too short, which causes the bottom of the nose -- and the nostrils -- to face forward, giving the appearance of a "pig nose." A sharp upturn to the nose tip, termed over-rotation, can also result in very visible nostrils. While many patients have always had an over-rotated nose, a short nose can be the result of a previous, overly aggressive nose job.

A derotation rhinoplasty procedure effectively lengthens the nose by increasing the nasolabial angle and turning down the nose tip. This results in a natural-looking nose that is better proportioned to the face, with much less prominent nostrils.

Patients should not underestimate the need to find the right plastic surgeon to perform their nose surgery. According to members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the procedure for improving an upturned nose is complex, typically requiring a cartilage graft along with extensive revision to the nostrils.

Therefore, anyone considering rhinoplasty to correct a short nose should make sure their surgeon offers the following:

Rhinoplasty specialization. While any plastic surgeon may perform nose surgery, a rhinoplasty specialist regularly works on noses of all shapes and sizes and is most likely to be skilled in latest rhinoplasty techniques.

Specific experience with derotation techniques. In addition to tissue grafting, surgery for a short nose usually requires an open rhinoplasty (incisions on the outside of the nose). Patients should choose a surgeon who has proven he or she can produce natural-looking results with minimal scarring.

Equally important, according to Dr. Byrne, is a surgeon who takes the time to understand a patient's concerns and help set realistic goals.

"Effective communication between surgeon and patient is key to achieve the best rhinoplasty results. The ideal surgeon will be sure to answer all of his patient's questions about the procedure and the expected outcome both thoroughly and honestly," says Dr. Byrne.

With the help of an experienced, qualified rhinoplasty specialist, there's no need for a small nose to be a big problem for one's appearance.

About The Cosmetic Surgery Center of Maryland: CSCMD is a nationally recognized cosmetic surgery practice located in the Baltimore area. Their offices, the Bellona Surgery Center, and the MedSpa are at 8322 Bellona Avenue, Suite 300, Towson, MD 21204. They can be reached at 410-296-0414 or at www.cscmd.com.